OLE LEQUE:
"Funeral services were conducted for Ole Leque, a long-time resident of the Beaver Creek Valley, at the home and the Beaver Creek church by Rev. T.E. Sweger Sunday afternoon, October 27th. The church was filled to capacity with relatives, friends and acquaintances who came from far and near to attend the last sad rites of this well known citizen of the community. Six sons of the deceased served as pall bearers, Olai, Cornell, Christian, Arthur, Sanford and Anton, thus fulfilling a long expressed wish of the departed. Four granddaugthers served as flower bearers Carol Hellekson, Arlene Leque, Lennice Toraason and Grace Leque. An old friend Knute Underheim sang a solo at the church service. Beside the floral tributes, a memory wreath in honor of Ole Leque was sent by several friends to Station WCAL at St. Olaf College. Interment was made in the family lot in the church cemetery.
Ole Leque was born in Ulvik Parish, Hardanger, Norway, August 26, 1853. His parents were Ola and Signe Leque. He was baptized and confirmed in his native partish. In his 18th year he followed the trek of so many of his native countrymen to the welcoming shores of America. He became a part of the large Haring settlement in the Beaver Creek Valley. And here the remainder of his days were spent. He endured the hardships of the pioneers, laid down many days of weary toil, saw a large family of sons and daughters grow up about him, gave some of his boys to battle for his country in the World War, witnessed the many changes and innovations that came with the fleeting years and finally closed his eyes in slumber after 82 years of an active life.
October 26, 1875, he was united in marriage to Anna Larsdatter Haldorson in a double wedding ceremony at the Trempealeau Valley church by Rev. Erik Jensen. The other couple married at the time was Nils Legreid and Anne Olsdatter Johnsen. The witnesses were Gullik Jonson and Ole Larson. To this union were born five children, two of whom preceded him in death, Tena, Mrs. Ole Torblaa and Louise, Mrs. Peter Strand. The living are Ola, Cornel M., Hannah, Mrs. Christ. Linberg, all of Beaver Creek. His wife died May 18, 1888. He was united in marriage to Mathea Hanson in the year 1889. This union was blessed with 11 children, two of whom are dead, Josephine and Ola. The surviving are Christian, Arthur, Sanford, Tilla, Mrs. Andrew Sexe; Anton, Louise, Mrs. Ole Gunderson and Tilman, all of Beaver Creek, Esther, Mrs. Erik Benz of Eau Claire and Ella, Mrs. Leonard Herreid of Palmer, Alaska. All were present at the funeral with the exception of Ella. There are 32 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. A sister also survives, Mrs. Anna Ellefson of Box Elder, Montana.
He suffered a stroke March 25th, 1930 another in March this year and the final one came at five o'clock Wednesday, October 23 and death came at 10 o'clock that same evening. Though confined to his bed a great deal of the time during the past five years he was up and about and active between the spells of sickness.
He was a member of the Beaver Creek congregation during all the years of his residence in the community. He had firm convictions on many topics and was outspoken in his views. He will long be remembered by the family and the many who knew him.
Dear one, how we miss you,
Our hearts are filled with pain,
As we listen for your footsteps,
That we'll never hear again.
To think you could not say good-bye,
Before you closed your eyes,
For all of us you did your best,
May God grant you eternal rest." WHITEHALL TIMES - October 31, 1935

MATTIA LEQUE:
"Mrs. Mattia Leque, 83, died last Tuesday, January 8th at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Andrew Sekse near Alma Center.
Funeral services were held Sunday at the North Beaver Creek Lutheran church with the Rev. L.W. Halvorson officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery.
Mrs. Lloyd Quammen and Mrs. Elvin Rogness sang "Abide With Me" and "Den Store Hvide Flok vi se." Pall bearers were Sanford Sekse, Clifford Moen, Orton Leque, Gerald Leque, Lyman Toraason and Richard Toraason.
Mattia Hanson was born August 22, 1858 in Sondreland, Norway. Her parents were Hans Engelien and Mattia Holden. She came to America with her parents when a young girl and they settled in the French Creek area where she grew to womanhood.
She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. Her marriage to Ole O. Leque took place, December 10, 1889 and they settled in Beaver Creek where she shared with him the many hardships of those pioneer days.
This union was blessed with eleven children, three of whom, Anna, Ole and Arthur, preceded their mother in death. She was a member of the Beaver Creek Lutheran church and was never too busy to lend a helping hand to those in need or to share with others. She made a hobby of quilting and many of her beautiful quilts are treasured by her children, grandchildren and friends.
Her husband died Ocrober 23, 1935, after which she moved to Blair. Her health gradually failed after she had the misfortune to fracture her shoulder in a fall about three years ago. About two years ago she fell again and fractured the bones in both wrists after which she became helpless and has since made her home with her children.
Mrs. Leque is survived by four sons, Christian of Galesville, Sanford, Anton and Tilman, all of Blair and four daughters, Tillie, Mrs. Andrew Sekse, Alma Center, Esther, Mrs. Erik Benz, Superior, Ella, Mrs. Leonard Herreid, Tacoma, Washington and Louise, Mrs. Ole Gunderson of Blair. She is also survived by a step-daughter, Mrs. Hannah Linberg of Blair and two step-sons Olai Leque of Blair, and Cornell Leque of Long Island, New York; one brother, Magnus Hanson of Greenbush, Minn., 41 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren and 12 great-great-grandchildren. She was "Grandma" to the all." THE BLAIR PRESS - January 17, 1952

MARTIN C. LEE: (TOTEN)
"Martin C. Lee of Newcomb valley was killed by an angry bull at the home of his son Christ on November 30. Mr. Lee was feeding the stock at the time and was alone in the lot when the animal made a dash for him, butting him in the breast with his head, crushing the chest and breaking several ribs. He lived five hours after the accident, suffering intensely. His son Christ was away at the time, and on returning home found his father in the barn where he had crawled after the fatal encounter with the bull. His daughter, Mrs. C.H. Mack, of Paragould, Ark., was at the home at the time on a visit. Another daughter, Mrs. Minnie Dates, of Merrillan was summoned immediately.
Mr. Lee was born in Toten, Norway, November 7, 1826, and came to America in 1871. He had reached the ripe age of 93 years, 2 moths and 23 days. He had always been in the best of health and at the time of his death was hale and hearty, and would probably have rounded out a century of existence, but for this fatal encounter with the enraged animal. He was the father of six children, two of whom are dead, and is survived by the two daughters mentioned, another daughter, Mrs. Carrie Johnson of Whitney, S.D., and his son Christ, with whom he lived.
The funeral services were held at the Fagernes church last Thursday." THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER, December 11, 1919

MRS. MARTIN LEE: (TOTEN)
"Mrs. Matin Lee, notice of whose death apeared in last week's issue, was born in 1829, in Toten, Norway, where she resided with her parents up to the year 1850, when she was married to Martin Lee. They emigrated to America and landed in Quebec, August 6, 1871. From there they came to Trempealeau county, purchasing and settling on the farm in Arcadia township, where she had since resided. Deceased leaves besides an aged husband to mourn her death, three daughters, Mrs. August Sedahl of Ark., one son, C.M. Lee residing on the home farm, and who has managed the place for many years, and one daugher, Jennie, deceasd. There are also living nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. The funeral services were held in the Fagernes church and the remains laid to rest in that cemetery, Rev. C. B. Bestul officiating." THE WHITEHALL TIMES/BLAIR BANNER, September 2, 1915

ANDREW A. LEE (JACKSON COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
Funeral services were conducted at 2 o’clock on Friday, August 9, 1963 for Andrew A. Lee, 78, prominent Town of Franklin farmer who had passed away early Tuesday, August 6 at his home. The funeral was conducted from the North Beaver Creek Lutheran Church where the deceased had been baptized and where he had been a valued and very active member al of his life. In the absence of the pastor of the church, The Rev. Konrad Urberg, the Rev. L.H. Jacobson, of the Zion Lutheran Church of Blair, officiated. The pallbearers were Lynn K. Fillner, Ronald Torkelson, Bernt Thompson, Leland Clair, Vilas Steine and Fred M. Fredrickson. Mrs. Ray Smith was the soloist and Mrs. Jennie Jordahl the organist. The hymns were “Softly and Tenderly” and “Nearer, My God to Thee”. The interment was made in the church cemetery. The Runnestrand Funeral Home at Ettrick had charge of the funeral arrangements.
Andrew A. Lee was born August 17, 1884 in the Town of Springfield, Jackson County, Wisconsin, to Mr. and Mrs. Andrew J. Lee. His mother’s maiden name was Elizabeth Johnson. His childhood was spent in the Springfield and Franklin areas where his entire life was spent. Never married Mr. Lee always took an active interest in the community. He had served as a member of his Town Board of Franklin for many years. He established an interesting record of almost always being the first each spring to complete the canvas of his area for the annual American Red Cross drive. He was a member of the Scandinavian American Fraternity Lodge and had been its Treasurer many years.
He is survived by one brother, Jesse, on the home farm; six nieces and one nephew. They are: Elvin S. Lee, Mrs. Wesley Meek and Mrs. Carl Cadby, each of Black River Falls; Mrs. Charles Shankey of Mukwonago, Wisconsin; Mrs. Robert Dietz, of Waukegan, Illinois; Mrs. Thomas Vail of Franklin Park, Illinois and Mrs. John M. Stephens of London, England. He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, John, Henry and Julius and two sisters, Christina, Mrs. Emil Olson and Josephine, Mrs. John Almus. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAP BOOK

PERRY LEE (ETTRICK TOWNSHIP, WISCONSIN)
Perry L. Lee, 58, died early Sunday May 17, 1964 of a heart attack at his home in Blair.
A lifelong resident of the Blair area, Mr. Lee was born July 25, 1905 in Jo Coulee, Ettrick, Township, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Steffen Lee and married Agnes Moen October 8, 1928. At the time of his death, Mr. Lee was employed at the Galstad’s Standard Service.
He is survived by his widow; six sons, Clayton of Plymouth, Wisconsin; Perry A., Donald, Stephen and Thomas, all of Milwaukee and Robert, in the Army in Germany; three daughters, Mrs. Orvis (Elaine) Stenberg and Mrs. LaVerne (Rita) Tranberg, both of Blair, and Mrs. Milton (Betty) Moen of Milwaukee; three brothers, Richard of Blair and Carl and Sigvarg of Black River Falls; one sister, Mrs. Harry Jackson of Whitehall; and 21 grandchildren.
Service arrangements by the Frederixon Funeral Home are pending word from the son in Germany. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAP BOOK

CHRIST M. LEE (NORWAY)
Funeral services were held at the Fagernes Lutheran church Thursday afternoon for Christ M. Lee, 90, who died at the Whitehall Community Hospital June 27. The Rev. H.O. Ausen officiated at the last rites. Mr. and Mrs. J.E. Rhode of Whitehall sang “Abide With Me” and Mrs. Rhode sang “Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling.” The pallbearers were Ernest E. Hanson, Sam Hanson, Henry Nelson, Albert Knudtson, H.I. Hanson and Gust Nelson. Burial was in the church cemetery.
Mr. Lee was born June 7, 1854 in Norway. He came to America in 1870, settling on the farm in Newcomb Valley in the Town of Arcadia where he resided until three years ago, when he went to live with his sister, Mrs. Minnie Dates at Merrillan. The farm that he owned was later divided and sold to H.I. Hanson and Vince Pyka of Newcomb Valley. Mr. Lee, in failing health, was moved to the Community Hospital June 24 for care but death soon followed.
Never married, he is survived by three sisters, Mrs. Dates mentioned above, Mrs. August Sedahl of Blair and Mrs. Clara Mack of Merrillan. He also leaves six nephews and four nieces. SOURCE - THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JULY 6, 1944

CLARENCE A. LEBAKKEN (TOWN OF GALE, TREMPEALEAU COUNTY, WISCONSIN)
Clarence A. Lebakken, 78, of Galesville, died Thursday, August 13, 1987, at Lutheran Hospital in LaCrosse, Wisconsin.
He was born June 25, 1909 in the Town of Gale, Trempealeau County to Otto and Thea Daffinson Lebakken. He married Ruth Thompson on May 15, 1931 in French Creek, Wisconsin.
The couple farmed near Galesville.
He was a member of the French Creek Lutheran Church and of the Sons of Norway chapter in Winona. He was a supervisor for the Town of Gale for 23 years.
Survivors include his wife; three daughters, Mercedes Duerst of Spokane, Washington; Ramona Habeck of St. Charles, Minnesota; and Diane Nelson of Fremont, Nebraska; six grandchildren; two sister, Alice McDonah and Margaret Towner, both of Trempealeau, Wisconsin and one brother, Lewis of Galesville.
Five brothers have died.
A funeral will begin at 2 p.m. Wednesday at the French Creek Lutheran Church near Ettrick, Wisconsin, the Rev. Roger Kampstra officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Smith Mortuary of Galesville is in charge of the arrangements. SOURCE - FAMILY SCRAPBOOK

LISA LEBAKKEN (BIRI)
Mrs. Lisa Lebakken was born June 6, 1839, died June 6, 1923 on her 84th birthday. Lisa Sveen was born in Beire, Norway. She was married to Andreas Lebakken November 2, 1862. They lived five years in Norway. Two children were born there. They came to America in 1867. Since then she has lived most of the time in Abraham’s coulee. Mr. Lebakken died May 31, 1895. She lived in Abraham’s coulee until five years ago when she moved with her son, Otto, onto the Freemark farm. She has always been a faithful member of the Lutheran church at Frenchville. She was the mother of 11 children, six preceding her in death. Besides a host of friends, she leaves to mourn her death, five children, Mrs. Ira Dale, Mrs. Anton Daffinson, Otto Lebakken and Christ Lebakken, all of Galesville and Mrs. Theodore Johnson of Whitehall. One brother, Fredrick Sveen of Ettrick and two sisters, Mrs. E. Johnson of Oregon and Mrs. R. Johnson of Fargo, North Dakota. She also leaves 75 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren. Funeral services were held from the home and French Creek church Saturday afternoon. Interment was made in the French Creek cemetery, Rev. Bestul officiating. Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Johnson and daughter, Lillie, attended the funeral. Bert Bergerson and Morten Thompson of Osseo were in attendance. Reprinted from the WHITEHALL TIMES- BANNER SOURCE - THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 28, 1923

CHRIST T. LEE (SOLAR)
Christ T. Lee died at his home in the village of Blair, Tuesday, January 25, of concussion of the brain following an injury received by a fall on the ice. Deceased was born in Solar, Norway on the 14th day of May 1854 and immigrated to America in 1880. He came to Black River Falls, where he worked at his trade, that of carpenter and builder and painting for a number of years, when he moved to the village of Blair, where he resided until his death. In 1899 he was united in marriage to Minnie Amundson. Five children were born to the union namely, Clarence, Mabel, Clara, Esther and Lloyd.
The deceased was a well known and familiar contractor, builder, painter and decorator, and planned and constructed many of the Scandinavian churches in the Trempealeau valley there having been scarcely an edifice in Trempealeau or Jackson counties built that he did not have a hand in the construction of. He was also a millwright of considerable notoriety and in fact, he was a man who could turn his hand to almost any portion of the building line. Chris will be missed by many, as he was a genial fellow and made friends on every hand,
The funeral was held Friday last under the auspices of the M.W. A., and was largely attended, over thirty Woodmen attending. The services were conducted by Rev. S.S. Urberg at the S.L. church and interment was made in the cemetery of the U.L.church, where his father was buried. THE WHITEHALL TIMES-BANNER - FEBRUARY 3, 1916

ANDREW O. LEE (FABERG, GUBRANDSDALEN)
Funeral services for Andrew O. Lee, a citizen of the Strum community who passed away at his home on Thursday morning, January 15, 1933, were held at the West Beef River church in Strum on Sunday afternoon. Mr. Lee became ill on Christmas Day and death was caused by pneumonia. He was 86 years, 10 months and eight days old at the time of his death.
The funeral sermon was delivered by Rev. Halvorsen. Special music was offered by Ovid Berg, who sang “Den Store Hvide Flok,” and by the choir who sang, “”Du Evige Kilppe.” The pallbearers were six of his brothers-in-law, all of them brothers, namely, Peter, Even, Sever, Carl, August and Otto Peterson. The flower-bearers were Ruth Peterson and Ruth Lee.
Andrew O. Lee was born in Faaberg, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, on February 27, 1846. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith. He was educated in the schools in Norway and spent his early life there. But he, like so many of his countrymen, decided that America was a land of better opportunities and so in 1865, when nineteen years old, he left his boyhood home and came to America. The first part of life in America was spent in Murray and Nicolet counties in Minnesota. A few years after he went there, he purchased a farm in Nicolet county. It was then that he decided that he wanted to make America his country and so he took out his papers and became a citizen of his adopted land. He remained in Minnesota for about twenty-five years and then he came to Wisconsin to live. He purchased the farm near Strum on which he resided until his death.
On April 8, 1896, he was united in marriage to Mathea Peterson of the same community. Andrew Lee’s chief interest was his home and his family and the years were spent by him and his faithful wife in building up a home and in caring for their children. Four children were born to the, three of whom are now living, namely, Palmer, who lives on the home farm; Carl of Strum and Alma, Mrs. Oscar Gilbertson, also of Strum. A son, Oscar, died in infancy. Besides his widow, he is survived by these three children and one grandchild, Donald Gilbertson.
Mr. Lee was a faithful husband and father, a kind neighbor and a steadfast friend. He was a hard worker and though his trials were many, he never faltered but steadily carried on. Throughout all his life and in all his dealings he tried to live up to the teachings of his church. His desire in life is perhaps best expressed in his favorite hymn, part of which is given here in the English translation:
Dearest Jesus, draw Thou near me,
Let Thy spirit dwell with mine,
Open now my ear to hear Thee,
Take my heart and seal it Thine;
Keep me, lead me on my way,
Thee to follow and obey,
E’er to do Thy will and fear Thee,
And rejoice to know and hear Thee.
Underneath Thy wings abiding
In Thy church, O Saviour dear,
Let me dwell in Thee confiding,
Hold me in Thy faith and fear;
Take away from me each thought
That with wickedness is fraught,
Tempting me to disobey Thee,
Root it out, O Lord, I pray Thee. SOURCE - THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 19, 1933

MRS. ELIZABETH LEE (KINSARVIK, HARDANGER)
Mrs. Elizabeth Lee, passed away at the home of her son, Andrew, in North Beaver Creek, Friday, November 6, 1931.
Elizabeth Jorgine Johnson Lee was born March 12, 1859, on Bjotveit Gaard, Hardanger, Norway, of parents Nils and Jorond Johnson. She came with her parents to America in 1866 and they located on a farm in Franklin. She grew to womanhood there.
On March 30, 1880, she was united in marriage to Andrew J. Lee. They continued with the occupation of farming. Eight children were born to this union, three of whom survive their mother, namely: Andrew and Jesse, at home, and Julius, who resides at Black River Falls. The other children who were born to them and preceded their mother in death are: Gina Josephine, who died in 1904 at the age of 21 years; Nils John, who died in 1907 at the age of 26 years; Henry, who died in the service of his country in France in 1918 at the age of 24; Chrisna (Mrs. Emil Olson) died in 1931 at the age of 45 years. She is also survived by two sisters, namely Mrs. Betsy Hallanger of the Town of Ettrick in Trempealeau County, and Mrs. Nellie Stensland of Heckla, South Dakota.
Her husband preceded her in death in 1910 and since that time she resided with her son, Andrew. For the past year, she has been ailing, and everything to ease her burden and give her comfort was freely given by her sons, who were at home with her. Mrs. Lee was a faithful worker for the family, the church and the community, and will be sadly missed by all.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, November 10th, first from the home and later from the North Beaver Creek First Lutheran church of which she had been a member. Rev. K.M. Urberg officiated at the services. Her remains were laid to rest beneath the friendly Norway pines in the church cemetery. Present at the funeral were a large number of relatives, neighbors and friends who had come to pay their last respects to a departed mother, sister, neighbor and friend.
The deep sympathy of the community goes out to the sorrowing family in their hour of great bereavement. THE TAYLOR HERALD - NOVEMBER 20, 1931

HANS T. LEE (TELEMARK)
Hans T. Lee passed way at 4:50 a.m. Tuesday, April 10, at the age of 79 years, six months and six days. Death followed an illness of several months.
Funeral services were held Friday at Our Saviour’s Lutheran church, the Rev. O. G. Birkeland officiating, and burial was in the Bruce Valley cemetery. A group from the senior choir sang three hymns, “I Know of a Sleep in Jesus’ Name,” “Den Store Hvide Flok” and “Abide With Me.” Pallbearers were the five sons of the deceased, Tommie, Tilferd, Alvin, Hilman and Kari Lee and Clarence K. Johnson.
Mr. Lee was born in Bo, Telemarken, Norway, September 3, 1871, and was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith by the Rev Kroger. At the age of 21 he came to this county. On December 5, 1906 he married Anna Johnson of Whitehall and the couple settled in the Town of Hale where they lived until three years ago, when they retired and moved to Whitehall.
Survivors are his wife and ten children, Tommie and Tilferd of Strum; Alvin, Hilman, Karl, Annie Alyce, Mrs. Ernest Davidson, and Hazel, Mrs. George Sielaff, all of Whitehall; Gladys, Mrs. Stanley Nelsesuten of Ettrick; and Sylvia, Mrs. Homer Poole of Lombard, Illinois. He also leaves 12 grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. C.J. Christopherson of Osseo and Mrs. Hans Larson of British Columbia, Canada; and five brothers, Halvor and Tosten of Valley City, North Dakota; Ole of Kathryn, North Dakota; and Hellek and Hans of Norway. He was preceded in death by three sons, Otis, Henry and George. SOURCE - THE WHITEHALL TIMES - APRIL 19, 1951

HENRY HENDRICKSON LEE (VARMLAND, SWEDEN)
Henry Hendrickson Lee was born in Warmland, Sweden, June 27, 1846, and died at his home at Taylor, Wisconsin, March 17, 1917, after a lingering illness.
He emigrated to America in the year 1868 and settled in South Beaver Creek, near Melrose in Jackson county. On November 18, 1873 he was united in marriage to Mary Christianson of Numedal, Norway. To this union were born five children, three of whom survive, one daughter, Mary, having died in infancy. The children are H.M. Hendrickson, Mrs. Nicholi T. Nichols, both of Taylor; Mrs. Stenulson of Squaw Creek and Mrs. Theodore G. Hanson of Taylor, another daughter died about a year ago. He is also survived by his wife.
Funeral services were held from the Trempealeau Valley church Wednesday, Rev. Urberg of this place officiating. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 22, 1917

MRS. KAREN LEE (SOLAR)
Mrs. Karen Lee passed away at Minneapolis on July 23rd. Deceased was born September 26th at Solar, Norway, in the year 1860. When about nine years of age, she immigrated to America with her parents and arrived here July 1, 1869. Her parents settled in what is now known as Trump Coulee.
She lived with her parents until in the year 1887, when she was united in marriage to John Lee. Immediately after their marriage they started farming in Trump Coulee not far from the home of her parents. Her husband preceded her in death in September 1908. Following his death and until 1923, she operated the farm with the help of her children. She then moved to Taylor in the spring of 1923 and remained there until in the fall, when she moved to Minneapolis to make her home with her daughter, Bertha and sons, Clarence and Henry
Twelve children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Lee, nine of whom are living, namely: John Lee of Taylor; Mrs. Minnie Fierce of Winnipeg, Canada; Mrs. Josie Zimmerman of Havelock, Nebraska; Mrs. Effie Rogne and Mrs. Tillie Bosick of Chicago, Illinois; Elmer, Henry, Clarence and Bertha Lee of Minneapolis She is also survived by 17 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She also leaves to mourn her death four brothers, who all reside near Taylor. They are Gunerius, Halvor, Arne and Thores Thompson. The last named brothers, Thores and Arne, reside on their father’s old homestead in Trump Coulee. A host of other relatives and friends also mourn the death of a good, Christian neighbor and friend.
Mrs. Lee’s health began to fail in May. For the last few weeks she had been confined at the Fairview hospital at Minneapolis in order to receive special care, but to no avail. Death came at 3 o’clock a.m. on Thursday, July 23, and at the time of her death, she was 64 years, 9 months and 22 days old.
Her remains were brought here for burial and were laid to rest beside those of her husband and three children who preceded her in death.
Funeral services were held Saturday at the home of her brothers, Thores and Arne, Rev. Bredeson officiating. All the children were able to be here for the funeral services and through the Herald they wish to thank all for sympathy extended and for the many beautiful floral offerings. REPRINTED FROM THE TAYLOR HERALD. SOURCE - THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 6, 1925

JOHANNES HANSON LEE (BO, TELEMARK)
Johannes Hanson Lee died September 20, 1932 at the age of 84 years and nine months.
Mr. Lee was born in Bo, Telemarken, Norway, December 21, 1847. He immigrated to America in 1872, at the age of 25 years. The first year he was here he spent in Minnesota, where a sister resided. Then he came to Trempealeau County where he lived until death called him.
On October 2, 1888, Mr. Lee was united in marriage to Birgit Gilbertson from Kvitseid Telemarken, Norway. This union was blessed with five children, two of whom died in infancy, a boy and a girl. His wife and three daughters are left to mourn the sad loss of a kind husband and father besides one sister in Norway, nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends. His parents, three sisters and three brothers preceded him in death.
In 1931, Mr. Lee suffered a light stroke that left him helpless for the rest of his life. But during the last five weeks of his life, he was unable to leave his bed at all. During his long illness he was given the most tender care by his wife and daughters, who were faithful at his bedside. His kindly old face has been missed from the circle of aged friends. During his illness he was always cheerful and kept up his courage until the end. The last words he uttered were that he was ready and willing to move to a more peaceful and lasting home.
Mr. Lee was baptized and confirmed in the Christian faith before leaving his home in Norway and continued faithful until the end. His work is done and our heavenly Father has called him home to rest at an advanced age.
Funeral services were held September 24 at the home and from the church. He was laid to rest in the Bruce Valley cemetery. Those from afar who came to attend his funeral were Mr. and Mrs. Hans Thompson and family of Hayfield, Minnesota; Miss Belle Thompson, Kasson, Minnesota; and Mrs. Emma Googins, Minneapolis. Peaceful be thy silent slumber. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - OCTOBER 6, 1932

MRS. KNUT LEE (VAAGE, GULBARNDSDALEN)
Funeral services for Mrs. Knut Lee of Bruce Valley, who died at her home Saturday, May 8, were held the following Monday in the local church, the Rev. O.A. Hjemboe officiating, and burial was in the church cemetery. Death followed a long illness at the age of 83 years, 8 months and 14 days.
Marie Lee was born in Vaage, Gulbrandsdalen, Norway, August 25, 1853, and was baptized, confirmed and grew to womanhood in the same community. In 1882 she was united in marriage to Knute Lee of the same valley, and a year later they came to America, living at several places before settling on the present farm in Bruce Valley in 1886.
The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Lee were Ronnaug, Berthine and Miss Kristine, of whom the oldest and youngest preceded her in death. She is survived by her husband and the second daughter, now Mrs Berthine Johnson, and three grandchildren, Phillis Lee, Minerva and Kermit Johnson, all living on the home farm. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MAY 20, 1937

MRS. JOHN LEE (KVITESEID, TELEMARK)
Mrs. John Lee passed away at her home in Bruce Valley May 4th, after a brief illness of only two weeks and five days. Her death was caused by a paralytic stroke, which came on suddenly on the evening of April 15th. She had been in fairly good health until that time. Her passing was a shock to her loved ones and the surrounding community.
Mrs. Lee was born April 6, 1857, in Kridsei, Telemarken, Norway. She was baptized and confirmed in the Christian faith. In the year 1885, she immigrated to America. The first three years she spent in Minnesota, then she came to the Town of Hale, Trempealeau County. On October 2, 1888 she was married to John Lee, who preceded her in death 19 months ago. She was the mother of five children, two of whom died in infancy, a boy and a girl. She was a lover of home and took great interest in its work, but still she longed for her heavenly goal. She was a faithful Christian woman and church member always willing to contribute to its needs and honest in her deeds, doing right to every one.
Mrs. Lee was 77 years and 28 days old when she died. She leaves to mourn her departure three daughters, namely, Ragna, Tillie and Jennie; one brother, Charley Gilbertson of Pleasantville; two sisters, Nellie, Mrs. John Loffin of Graceton, Minnesota and Emma, Mrs. C. Googins of Minneapolis, nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and friends.
Funeral services were conducted by Rev. N.E. Halvorsen at the home and at the Bruce Valley church on Tuesday afternoon, May 8. She was laid to rest in the Bruce Valley cemetery by the side of her husband. The pallbearers were five of her nephews, Oscar Gilbertson, Theodore Gilbertson, Melvin Gilbertson, Elmer Gilbertson, Oswald Froseth and one cousin, Palmer Gunderson. Flower girls were two of her nieces, Ida Gilbertson and Mrs. Reuben Robinson, and two of her cousin’s children, Sylvia Lee and Alice Christopherson. Memorial wreaths and flowers were given by relatives and friends in memory of the deceased.
Those who attended the funeral from away were Mrs. Emma Googins of Minneapolis, Miss Belle Thompson, Kaason, Minnesota; Hans Thomson, son Paul and daughter Helen, Hayfield, Minnesota; and Mr. and Mrs. Nels Thompson of Black River Falls. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - MAY 17, 1934

JULIUS M. LEE (SOLAR)
Julius M. Lee was born in Solar, Norway, on December 15, 1855. On March 23,
1882, he was united in marriage to Olia Voldsness. In that same year they came together to America among other pioneers. Julius and his wife came directly to Chimney Rock. There for two summers he was employed by Ole (Skyterud) Olson and in the winter months he worked in the woods. Later he purchased land from Ole Olson, where he and his wife, strong and sturdy pioneers, worked faithfully with a team of oxen as power in clearing the land and building up a home.
Julius and Olia Lee joined the Chimney Rock Norwegian Lutheran church soon after he settled here. He took an active part in church work and was always willing to help in any way which should promote the welfare of the church. In 1893 he was elected secretary of the congregation and held that office for 37 years.
To Julius and Olia Lee nine chlidren were born. Three of them preceded in death, two dying in infancy and Emil at the age of 15. On November 12, 1899, his wife, Olia Lee, passed way, leaving Julius and six children to mourn her death.
Julius Lee was an honest, kind and loving father and grandfather. He had a great host of friends and relatives. You were always welcome and greeted with a smile and a handshake wherever you met him or when you came to visit him. He enjoyed visiting with people and kept abreast of world events. No matter what kind of weather, you would always see Julius at church until this last year, when his health, sight and hearing began to fail him. But thanks to radio station WCAL, to which he listened every Sunday morning to God’s word in the Norwegian language, he was not left entirely without the comfort of his religion.
At the age of four years Orpha Insteness came to live at the Lee home and spent ten years of her life there.
On March 4, 1941, Julius Lee became ill and was bedridden until the day he entered eternal rest on March 22. Surviving are his children: Olaf of Eleva,; Mrs. Emil (Otilda) Johnson of Strum; Hjalmer on the home farm; Melvin of York, North Dakota; Mrs. Cornelius (Helga) Stone of Eleva; and Palmer of Strum. Surviving are also one sister in Oslo, Norway, 18 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. One great-grandchild preceded him in death in February of this year.
Because of road conditions funeral services were held at the Rhode chapel at Whitehall and from the Chimney Rock church on March 25, the Rev. HA. Wichmann in charge. The pastor sang two songs at the church, “Sat Dig Saa Jeg Ser Dig Jesus,” and “Den Store Hvide Flock.” Flower girls were Ima Lee, Selma Lee and Mrs. Ted Warner. He was carried to his resting place by Palmer Olson, Russell Paulson, Jalmer Halvorson, Iner and Henry Voldness and Oscar Olson.
Those attending the funeral services from a distance were his son Melvin from York, North Dakota; Mrs. Ted (Orpha) Warner and Jackie of Chicago; Mrs. Julia Emerson, Albert Emerson and Otto Amundson, all of Cadott; and many friends and relatives from Eau Claire. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JUNE 5, 1941

LARS J. LEE (EIDSVOLD)
Funeral services were held for Lars J. Lee at the C.B. Immell home on Thursday afternoon, March 1, with the Rev. K.M. Urberg officiating. Interment was in the Blair cemetery.
It was in 1881, at Sparta, Wisconsin, that the oldest daughter of Frank Immell, Alice Catherine and Lars Lee were united in marriage. They were well known to the older families of this territory, having lived in these parts until 1892 when they moved to Brookings, South Dakota. In 1900 they moved to Mankato which has been their home until this time.
The death of Mr. Lee terminated a marriage which had continued for more than 63 years.
Lars Johnson Lee was born in Eidsvold, Norway, November 29, 1856 to the parents Lars and Anna Lee. At the age of ten years he came to the United States settling near Portland, Wisconsin where he grew to manhood.
Four daughters blessed the marriage of Lars and Alice Lee: Edna Marie, passed away in infancy; Mrs. H.C. Enke of North Mankato; Mrs. L.R. Roebke of Mankato; and Mrs. F.M. Elliott of Madison Wisconsin. There are seven grandchildren of whom three are wearing the uniform of their great nation. There are also two great-grandchidren.
Mr. Lee was a salesman for the International Harvester Company for more than thirty years, being retired on pension in 1925.
Las fall he was in Blair in attendance at the funeral of his brother-in-law, Omer Immell. He was then strong and alert in spite of a high age. However, the infirmities of age were not to be withstood, and he fell asleep on Sunday, February 25, 1945.
Funeral services were conducted at Mankato Tuesday, February 27, and the body was brought to Blair for interment. THE BLAIR PRESS - MARCH 8, 1945

MRS. REGINA LEE (NORLAND)
Mrs. Regina Lee passed away at her home May 12 at 4:25 a.m. (1947) from a heart ailment. At the time of her death, she was 72 years, 8 months and one day old.
Regina Carolina was born in Norland, Norway, September 10, 1874 to Peter Hjelsand and his wife, Sigrid Krongstad. She was baptized in infancy and later confirmed in the Lutheran faith. She came to America with her parents when she was nine years old, and they chose the location of Blair, Wisconsin as their home.
October 17, 1892, she was united in marriage to Otto Lee who passed away on August 9, 1942. To this union thirteen children were born of which ten survive. The couple made their home in Blair until 1915 when they moved to Jesse Lake, Minnesota.
Left to mourn a kind, patient, loving, understanding and God-fearing mother, sister and grandmother are five daughters, Mrs. Austin Alreck (Cora) of Duluth, Minnesota; Mrs. Albert Johnson (Lilla) of Tower Minnesota; Verna of Jesse Lake, Minnesota; and Alice of Onalaska, Wisconsin. Five sons, Oscar of Blair; Arthur of Sparta, Wisconsin; Ervin, Alvin and Norman of Jesse Lake, Minnesota. Three sisters, Mrs. T.R. Townswick of Tyler, Minnesota; Mrs. C.R. Gooding of San Diego, California; and Mrs. Sena Gilbertson of LaCrosse, Wisconsin. One brother, Andrew Hjelsand of Blair. Also 13 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held at the Jesse Lake Evangelical Lutheran church, Thursday, May 15 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Clifford Kalmoe, local pastor, officiating. Interment was in the family lot in the Greenwood cemetery, Jess Lake.
Relatives from Blair who went to Jesse Lake for the funeral were Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Lee and Stanley and Andrew Hjelsand. They were accompanied by Miss Alice Lee of Onalaska. THE BLAIR PRESS - MAY 22, 1947

OLE S. LEGREID (EIDFJORD, HARDANGER)
Ole S. Legreid was born in Eidfjord, Norway, October 15, 1881. In early infancy he emigrated with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. S.B. Legreid to America. They made their home on a farm in Beaver Creek, which became the residence of the deceased until his death.
He was united in marriage to Miss Helen Herreid, December 15, 1909. Five children came to gladden this home. The eldest, Martha Evelyn, died March 25, 1922, at the age of 12 years. Hazel Orella, 17, Sammie Oliver, 14, Ralph Elden, 11, Archie James, 9 and his grief stricken wife remain to mourn the death of a beloved father and husband.
Mr. Legreid was taken seriously ill Sunday evening, June 2nd. He was removed to the Whitehall hospital the following Tuesday where he underwent an operation for ruptured appendix the same day. He made a rapid recovery from the operation and strong hopes were held for his complete restoration to health when two weeks after the operation, a sudden relapse carried him away before his family was able to reach his bedside. He died June 18, 1929.
Besides the above mentioned, he leaves to mourn his loss his aged mother, Mrs. Tom Mikkelson of Blair; two sister, Mrs. Ole Bratland and Mrs. J.L. Johnson. His father preceded him in death 25 years ago.
Mr. Legreid was a very kind and loving husband and father, a devoted member of the Beaver Creek congregation. He stood high in the respect of the community, a man who was always willing to lend himself to every worthy cause.
Funeral services were held Friday June 21st, at the home and at the Beaver Creek church, the pastor Rev. Sweger officiating. The funeral was one of the most largely attended showing the great esteem in which the deceased was held. Special music was rendered by the Beaver Creek Male Quartet. Memorial wreaths in the form of gifts to the Homme Orphans Home and Homme Home for the Aged were given by Mr. Tom Mickkelson, Mr. and Mrs. John A. Knutson, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Herreid, Ole K. Herreid and Nellie Herreid. THE BLAIR PRESS - JUNE 27 1929

HENRY H. LEWIS (CHRISTIANA)
Henry H. Lewis was born on Helgelands Haugen in Christiansands Stift, Norway, February 11, 1839, and died at the Torger Gunderson home in the Town of Sumner, this county, July 13, 1924. He came to U.S. in 1856 and located at Primrose in Dodge County, Wisconsin, where he spent some years. From there he moved to Iowa County, this state, and in 1870 to Hale, Trempealeau County, where in 1874 he bought a farm from E.M. Sexton in partnership with his brother, Andrew H. Lewis. This partnership continued until 1884, when Henry bought his brother’s interest in the farm. When he came to this county, he was accompanied by his parents, Lars Larson Haugen, mother Anna Haugen and brother Andrew. For several years he was known as Helge Haugen. His father died in 1877 and his mother in 1888. When the Haugen people came to this county they were all members of Hauges Synod church and remained such until a union of the several branches of the Norwegian Lutherans in U.S. was effected The writer’s attention was first attracted to the Haugen or Lewis family by the zeal and devotion to the Hauge Synod church. Summer or winter, they would travel from the Town of Hale to Curran valley in Jackson County to attend religious services. And from an intimate knowledge of the deceased, the writer can affirm that the zeal and devotion to his Maker’s cause continued without abatement until his death. He was one of the old time, steadfast characters whose moral and spiritual light shone with unwavering brightness like a beacon anchored to a rock.
Like his brother, Andrew, he always took a deep interest in the politics of his adopted country. They never married, he found ample opportunities for manifesting the parental instinct in his nature in caring for such relatives as seemed to need assistance. His temperament was cheerful and social but always maintained on the high levels of sobriety. His yeas were many but not too many for up till a few days before his death he was capable of attending to the common duties of life with mental faculties comparatively unimpaired. “A good man” is perhaps the most expressive term we can apply to our departed friend, neighbor and citizen. May our community have many like him. He now rests besides his father, mother and brother, Andrew, in the little cemetery on the Andrew Lewis farm in the Town of Hale. Written July 30, 1924 by H.A. Anderson. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JULY 31, 1924

BERNT PEDERSON LENSRUD (VERMAND, SWEDEN)
Bernt Pederson was born in Vermland, Sweden, December 1, 1829, christened January 1, 1830 in the ancient church of Holjaas and later on confirmed in the same place. In 1853 he came to the United States with his parents, Peder Pederson and Sigrid Pederson. They came on a sail ship - their voyage lasting thirteen weeks.
Their trip overland from the sea was mostly by canal boats. They entered Wisconsin by the way of Milwaukee, thence of Koshkonong, one of the first Scandinavian settlements in Wisconsin. The young man soon found work in the wintertime as blacksmith in Stoughton and Madison and during the summer on a farm in Dane County. One summer he worked as blacksmith for the Federal Government in Kansas. In the fall of 1855 he came to Trempealeau Valley and bought a claim from a Mr. Trumph. The claim consisted of wild land and a dugout. The next spring, with his father and mother he moved onto the land he had bought and from that time until his death it was his home.
November 19, 1861 he married Anna Olson Norgaard, with whom he had fourteen children. His father died in 1874, and his mother in 1887, and his wife June 8, 1917. Soon after he moved onto his land he rigged up a blacksmith shop, making his own forge, bellows and charcoal. Here the new settlers for miles came to get their horses and oxen shod and such other work, in his line, as they needed. The pay was small and much of it practically charity but it all helped in the upbuilding of a new community. With the exception of “Vosse” Nels, Pederson was the first settler in what is commonly known as Vosse Coulee and neighbors few and far between.
Mr. Pederson was of medium height and strongly built, had blue eyes and flaxen hair. He was quiet and composed in manner and habits; had little to say and never pushed himself forward. He was firm in his convictions and sound in judgment founded on common sense. Like most healthy strong men, he rarely lost control of his temper. Hence his family life was unruffled by strife and quarrels. A man of basic integrity and dependable. Since he reached manhood, he was never known to be sick except once, about thirty years ago,
Saturday, October 13, he manifested greater weakness than usual and from that time until he passed away he was in bed most of the time. On the fifteenth he was still able to sit up as late as two o’clock in the afternoon and at 6:30 o’clock that evening he went to sleep. He passed without apparent pain-just “slukna” like a candle burned to the socket. His funeral was held in the Trempealeau Valley church on the 18th, Rev. Urberg, his pastor for many years, preached the funeral sermon.
He leaves the following named children: Claus, unmarried, and Bennie, on the old homestead where they were born; A.B. Pederson, well known as a longtime businessman and now the president of the First National Bank of Blair; Mrs. Emelia Sanberg of Chicago; Sophie Peterson of Oraville, Oregon; and Mrs. Myrtle Christoperson of Pigeon Falls, Trempealeau County. All the children were present at the funeral except Sophie and Mrs. Sanberg. Now he sleeps by the side of his father, mother , wife and eight of his children-who preceded him in death, near the church he helped to build in 1867 and in 1868. Six of his children died within a very short time of each other from diphtheria, and the other two after maturity from other causes.
In contemplating a life of such unusual length, lived so long in the same place-from the dawn of our history as a community until that history has become an epic of wonderful achievements-it is easy to become reflective and reminiscent. Well might he have exclaimed as he sat in his chair for the last time and visualized the changes that had come during the sixty-seven years he lived on the farm: “Behold what God has wrought!” He had known sorrows and was acquainted with grief. He had known poverty, hardships and privations incident to nearly all the standard bearers on the frontiers of civilization and especially to those who came here ignorant of the language customs and working methods of the country and their adoption. But now as the evening shadows drop like a curtain over the gold-rimmed western horizon he can truly say “I have seen the travail of my soul and am satisfied.” And if he took a larger view back over the dead centuries of human life he must have realized in that final vision that although the centuries had dropped from the hand of God into the abyss of oblivion that some unsubduable forces and principles from all the past had survived and converged their light and power to make the last hundred years the best and most wonderful century since human life began. In spite of cruel wards, crimes and catastrophies, resulting from swiftly changing conditions of life, on a blind-folded pessimist will maintain there is not more comfort, greater personal safety and more widespread happiness in the world than ever before. Life has become active, positive and assertive. We experience more sensations today in a week than our ancestors a hundred years ago, experienced in years. Some of them are not pleasant but the majority bring the sweet flavors of victories won.
And now for a final glance of an incident connected with the life the deceased. Fifty years ago this incident was widely known and at the time of its occurrence caused very active excitement among the settlers. In the fall of 1872 Mr. Pederson had been in Black River Falls with a load of wheat. He was on his way home with the price of the load in his pocket. When he came to the top of a hill where W.T. Price had his home, a stranger asked him for a ride to Price’s farm. This request was readily granted. Pederson was driving a spirited span of horses hitched to a lumber wagon. The man got into the spring seat on the left side of the driver. After driving a mile or so they came to a rather lonely place. Here the stranger pushed a revolver against Mr. Pederson’s head and demanded his money. Mr. Pederson instead of complying with his demand grappled with the stranger and in the scuffle the revolver went off, the bullet plowing a furrow across the top of Mr. Pederson’s head from which he carried a scar to his grave. In the struggle the would-be assassin fell to the ground and the horses ran away, but Mr. Pederson stayed in the wagon dazed but not knocked out. Later in the day the same fellow tried to hold up two other men on the ridge dividing the Black River valley from the Trempealeau Valley. Here again he met with poor success for they captured him, tied him and took him to Black River Falls. Here he escaped lynching only because the mad mob lacked the right leader. This incident coming soon after a man returning from Trempealeau with his wheat money was robbed and killed near the well-known tavern known as Four-Mile-House, caused not only excitement but real fear among the people over a wide area. Tosten Tostenson Skyrud was also held up near the place where Mr. Pederson had his lively experience. This little glimpse shows that “the good old days” also had some evil men.
Rest the soldier from the wars of peace, the elemental strife which God designed, when from the gates of flaming swords He spent man forth to earn his bread through sweat and toil. Written by H.A. Anderson, October 31, 1923 THE TAYLOR HERALD - OCTOBER 31, 1923

MRS. OLE S. LEGREID (GRANVIN, HARDANGER)
Synneva Inversdatter Stuejord was born in Graven, Sogn, Norway, December 8th, 1836, of the parents Iver Nielson Stuejord and wife, Brita Nielsdatter Seim.
She came to Dane County, Wisconsin in 1857 and was married the same year to Ole Svenungson Legreid from Eidfjord, Hardanger, Norway, by Rev. Preus. They moved to Bear Creek, in the Town of Ettrick, Trempealeau County, in 1867. Nine children were born to them, of whom three are living. Her husband died in 1897.
She came to the Town of Coon, Vernon County, two years later and stayed at the home of her daughters, Mrs. H. Larson and Mrs. E. Storbakken.
She was sick for about a year and died Thursday, January 29, 1925, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Elai Storbakken, with whom she stayed the last two years. She was 88 years old.
She is survived by two daughters: Mrs. Helge Larson and Mrs. Elai Storbakken, and one son, Iver Legreid of Minot, North Dakota. Also 19 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren.
The funeral was held Tuesday, February 3, at the Upper Coon Valley church. Rev. O. J. Hylland officiated. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 19, 1925

ALECK LEWISON (NORWAY)
Funeral services were held for Aleck Lewison Thursday afternoon February 3. A short service was held at the home of his niece, Mrs. Nobel Hanson, Vosse Coulee and at the Trempealeau Valley Lutheran church with the Rev. B.J Hatlem officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Mrs. Carl Johnson sang “The Old Rugged Cross,” and “Bedre kan jeg ikke fare.”
Aleck Lewison was born in Norway March 20, 1849. His parents were Ole and Gunhild Lewison.
At the age of six years he came with his parents to America who settled first in Dane county and later moved to Trempealeau County. He was confirmed at the Trempealeau Valley church.
After the death of his parents, he made his home with his sisters. The last fourteen years he lived with his niece, Mrs. Nobel Hanson in Vosse Coulee.
He is survived by one brother, Ole Lewison of Iola, Wisconsin who was present at his brother’s funeral. Four sisters and five brothers preceded him in death.
Mr. Lewison passed away suddenly of a heart stroke on Monday, January 30, at the age of 94 years, 10 months and 11 days
Pallbearers were Bennie Peterson, Ole Johnson, Kenneth Vold, C. Renning, Selmer Koxlien and Sam Lien.
Gilbert Anderson of Fhame, North Dakota came for the funeral. THE BLAIR PRESS - FEBRUARY 10, 1944

MRS. GORINE LEWIS (OIER, GUDBRANDSDAEN)
The remains of Mrs. Gorine Solberg Lewis, pioneer citizen of Trempealeau County, lie at rest in the Hale cemetery a short distance from the home where she lived for many years.
Gorine Soberg was a native or Oier, Gudbrandsdalen, Norway. She was born August 5, 1849. At the age of 16 years, she accompanied her parents, the Rev. and Mrs. Peder J. Solberg, to America. The Solbergs had a family of eight children. Following a sea voyage of six weeks, the family arrived at Milwaukee, this state, by boat coming via Quebec.
In later years, Mrs. Lewis often told about the first day the family spent in Milwaukee which was vividly impressed upon her memory by the fact that newsboys were on the street selling extras telling of the assassination of President Lincoln. There were also hundreds of soldiers in the city who were on parade before demobilization
The Rev. Solberg established a home on a farm near Coon Valley, Vernon, County, in which community he organized a circuit of congregations. Several years later the family moved to Trempealeau County and homesteaded land in the Town of Hale three miles north of Pigeon Falls which is now known as the Lewis farm.
Gorine Solberg was united in marriage to Andrew H Lewis in 1869. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis established a home on a farm near the Hale store in partnership with his brother, Henry H., where they continued to live until 1885. At that time Andrew and his wife bought the Solberg homestead.
Mrs. Lewis was blessed with a cheerful and sunny disposition and with courage and perseverance that few possess. During the early days, the Lewis home was a refuge for many immigrant families from Norway who made it their home until they could establish themselves in the new land. Friends and strangers alike were always welcome and received the generous hospitality of Mr. and Mrs. Lewis.
Mrs. Lewis dedicated her life to the service of her relative and friends. The greatest trial that she faced, however, came on June 13, 1887, when her husband was taken from her and her family. Mr. Lewis was accidentally killed that day when his team of horses ran away. She then faced the problem of caring for her large family and operating the farm without the help of her life mate. Many confronted with such a problem would have lost courage but she faithfully carried on, managed her farm and reared her children.
A family of twelve were born to Mr. and Mrs. Lewis, six of whom survive. They are Arthur of Camrose, Alberta, Canada; Bennie and George, Town of Hale; Mrs. Clara Huse and Mrs. Agnes Thorson, Town of Pigeon; and Mrs. Mabel Thorson, Joplin, Montana. The children who preceded her were Laurence and Elmer, who died in infancy; Mrs. Julia Dreier and Mrs. Anna Olson, who died in 1909; Ella who died in 1915 and Peter Laurence, who died in 1922. Of her brothers and sisters, all have preceded her to their eternal home except John Solberg of Rapid City, South Dakota.
After Mrs. Lewis had reared her family and reached an age when she should retire from strenuous work, she made her home with her children. For the past twelve years she resided with her daughter, Mrs. Agnes Thorson in Pigeon. She became ill the latter part of November and on December 27, 1935, the Lord called her to her eternal home. Funeral services were held December 31 at the U.L. church at Pigeon Falls, the Revs. A.J. and H.A. Oerke officiating. Pallbearers were her grandsons, Elmer, Clarence, Ernest, Maynard, Robert and Arthur Lewis. Burial took place in the Hale cemetery. THE WHITEHALL TIMES - JANUARY 16, 1936

A. H. LEWIS (HJELMELAND)
Honorable A. H. Lewis, of Hale, met a tragic death last Saturday night when returning home from a business trip to Whitehall, being found dead at the gate where he turned off the main road to enter his premises, and about thirty rods from his residence. His family heard the team running into the yard and Mrs. Lewis, who was the first to reach the scene of the accident, found her husband lying in the road near the gate dead. He breathed but a few times after she reached him. He had opened the gate and the horses, being a spirited span of colts, having run away previously, apparently startled and ran over him, the tongue of the wide-tire truck wagon striking him in the region of the heart and producing almost instant death. There was also evidence of the wheels passing over his head. Deceased was born May 1, 1845, in the parish of Hjelmeland, near the city of Stavanger, Norway. He emigrated to the United States with parents in 1855. He settled first in Dane County, then in Iowa County, this state, and in 1869 located in the Town of Hale where he died. He married Miss Gurine Solberg in 1871. He had twelve children, ten of whom survive him, four sons and six daughters. Eight of his children are at home, while two of his daughters are teaching school in North Dakota and were unable to attend the funeral, which was held at the home today, Rev. Elstad, of Osseo, officiating, the services being largely attended. He was prominent in the pubic affairs of this town and in the county. He had served chairman of Hale 12 years, which office he held at the time of his death. He was also chairman of the county board of supervisors. He was a prominent republican, and in 1885 represented Trempealeau County in the assembly. He was a member of the republican senatorial committee at the time of his death, and last year was a prominent candidate for the nomination of his party for state senator. He served his party in numerous ways and always with credit. He had been a leading figure in most every public improvement in this section in late years and enjoyed the confidence of the people. What this terrible loss means to his family can easier imaged that described, and their numerous friends who would readily assist to assuage their grief, stand helpless before the sorrow occasioned by his sad parting. They have the sympathy of the whole community. THE WHITEHALL TIMES AND BLAIR BANNER - JUNE 7, 1897

HENRY LEGREID (EIDFJORD, HARDANGER)
Henry Legreid, 98, died at Grand View Home Saturday evening (August 19, 1967). He and his wife became residents April 12. Prior to that they lived with their son, Melvin, on the farm in North Beaver Creek.
He was born November 12, 1868 in Eidfjord, Hardanger, Norway, to Amund and Martha Hansdatter Legreid.
He received his education in Norway and the Hegg school, Ettrick Township. He was confirmed at New Centerville, near Baldwin, Wisconsin.
He then came to North Beaver Creek in the Hegg area where he worked as a carpenter. He made his home with the Lars Quammen family. On May 30, 1896 he was married to Caroline Quammen. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. S.S. Urberg.
The couple purchased the north part of the Lars Quammen farm in 1901 and farmed until retiring in 1945.
Mr. and Mrs Legreid celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary in May at Grand View Home.
He is survived by his wife; two sons, Lester, Newark, New Jersey; and Melvin on the home farm; five grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
The funeral was held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at North Beaver Creek First Lutheran Church of which he was a member. The Rev. K.M. Urberg officiated. Burial was in the church cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers were Lars Myrland, Selmer Knutson, Helmer Sexe, Eldon Heimdahl, Kenneth Bue and Leonard Sexe. THE BLAIR PRESS - AUGUST 24, 1967

ANTON M. LEE (TRONDHJEM, NORWAY)
Anton M. Lee, a prominent representative of the farming and stock raising industry in Gale Township, comes of that hardy Norwegian race that has assisted so largely in the development of the agricultural resources of the county. He was born in Trondhjem, in the northern part of Norway, August 31, 1860, son of Michael and Anna (Anderson) Lee, both parents being natives of the same province. He had the misfortune to lose both father and mother when a mere infant, being only three months old when his mother died. Not long afterwards his father, who was a fisherman, perished at sea. He was reared by relatives and when eight years old came to America with his grandmother and uncle, who located at Stevenstown, LaCrosse Coutny. With his uncle he resided for two years and then, coming to Trempealeau County, worked on farms for different persons, being in the employ of the Poss family in Gale Township for seven years. Later he worked in sawmills and at cutting timber in the woods and was thus generally occupied until he was 24 years old. He then purchased his present farm, on which he has made various improvements, erecting modern buildings. He has 280 acres of valuable land and operates the farm as a general stock farm. In 1916 he started breeding Shorthorn cattle, to which line of work he is giving special attention. Among the buildings he has erected is a commodious barn, 136 by 40 feet, with a wing 26 by 40, an 8-foot foundation and 16-foot stock-boards, and about 50 feet to the ridge. Mr. Lee is also a stockholder in the Arctic Springs Creamery, in the Farmers’ Exchange and in the LaCrosse Packing Company and the Independent Harvester Company of Plano, Illinois. April 16, 1884, Mr. Lee was married to Agnes Cook, who was born at Decorah Prairie, Gale Township, daughter of David and Anna (Henderson) Cook. Her parents, who were born in Scotland, came to Wisconsin and settled on Decorah Prairie in 1853, where Mr. Cook, who had been both a farmer and miner, followed agriculture for many years, and became a prominent citizen of the township, holding various offices. He died February 4, 1906, his wife having passed away December 20, 1888. Mr. and Mrs. Lee have been the parents of four children: Roy D., born October 29, 1886 and died December 19, 1886; Hollis I., born September 4, 1889, a graduate of the Galesville High School and is residing at home; Hessa G., born September 17, 1894, also a graduate of the Galesville High School, who resides at home and is a teacher in Grant School, and Howard A., born September 25, 1898, who graduated from the Agricultural School at Onalaska, class of 1917. Mr. Lee is a member of the Brotherhood of American Yeomen, having served as head officer of his lodge since 1908, and also of the American Society of Equity. He served as clerk of the school board for sixteen years and at present is a director; for a number of years also, he has been treasurer of the Decorah Prairie Creamery Association. He and his family are affiliated religiously with the Presbyterian Church. HISTORY OF TREMPEALEAU COUNTY - 1917